Albert Pujols Expected To Interview For Orioles‘ Managerial Opening
baltimore Orioles officials are planning to interview albert Pujols for their vacant managerial position, according to reports from ESPNS Jeff Passan and The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal. The potential interview marks a significant step toward a possible return to Major League Baseball for the future Hall of Famer, this time in a leadership role.
The Orioles are seeking a new manager after the 2025 season, and the organization’s interest in Pujols stems from his extensive playing career and recent managerial experience. Orioles president of baseball operations Mike Elias previously scouted Pujols during his time with the St. Louis Cardinals. This connection, coupled with Pujols’ existing relationship with Matt Holliday – whose son, Jackson Holliday, is an Orioles infielder – could be factors in the team’s consideration.
Baltimore’s roster is undergoing a transition,featuring promising young players like Jordan Westburg,Colton Cowser,Samuel Basallo,and Coby Mayo. The pitching staff includes trevor Rogers, who emerged as an ace, and Kyle Bradish, who has demonstrated considerable potential when healthy. FanGraphs’ RosterResource estimates the Orioles’ 2026 payroll at approximately $81 million, a substantial decrease from their 2025 spending.
Pujols recently managed Leones del Escogido in the Dominican winter league and is currently slated to manage the Dominican Republic national team in the upcoming World Baseball Classic, a commitment that would likely be adjusted should he accept a major league managerial position. He retired as a player after the 2022 season with 703 career home runs.